McDonald's UK to Brew Sustainable Coffee

NEW YORK -- Beginning tomorrow, McDonald's UK will begin sourcing all of its coffee beans from farms certified by Rainforest Alliance here. Only farms that meet the specific standards balancing aspects of production, including protecting the environment, the rights and welfare of workers and the interest of coffee-growing communities are awarded this certification. Kenco, a Kraft Foods subsidiary, will supply the 1.8 million pounds of coffee to 1,200 McDonald's restaurants throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom. "Today's announcement will transform the market for sustainably grown coffee in the U.K.," said Steve Easterbrook, chief executive officer of McDonald's UK, in a statement. "It means we can offer our customers great-tasting coffee that benefits coffee growers, their communities and the environment." Prices will range from $1.43 for a regular coffee to $2.08 for a large cappuccino or latte. McDonald's UK brews 143,000 cups of coffee, cappuccino and lattes each day.